Student motions for free beer

The most impassioned debate at the Students’ Association of Mount Royal University’s Annual General Meeting wasn’t about the proposed bylaw changes, but whether or not SAMRU should buy attendees a cold one.

On Jan. 30, SAMRU held their AGM in The Hub to discuss the latest bylaw revisions to their agenda. Students had the opportunity to inquire about SAMRU bylaws before the motion was passed, some questioning the rational behind minor bylaw changes.

All of the motions of approval concerning their latest bylaw revisions passed without any objections by the students. The highlight, and the most in-depth debate of the AGM, occurred when one student decided to put forth a motion to award $5.75 to every person in the room for credit at The Hub.

While most of the students cheered, a few quickly stood up to oppose such a motion, explaining that to use SAMRU funds for such a reason “wouldn’t be operating this organization very well.”

In response, SAMRU president Kaylene McTavish explained that the SA already puts a lot of money into student events like the AGM, such as providing food for all of the students in attendance as well as the chance to win an iPad.

“We love student engagement, we love that you exercise your governing practices to put a motion on the table,” McTavish said, quickly adding: “If you’re here to serve yourself, that’s your prerogative.”

Needless to say, after a rather long debate, the motion did not pass.

“Well, that was fun,” McTavish said.

Also, students questioned where the other member of the SAMRU executive committee was, to which McTavish stated, “Julia Broome resigned.” Broome resigned from her position due to scheduling conflicts with her classes. The position will be filled in the interim by Michelle Dennis, who held the position of VP external last year.